[Mike McCarty]

Jimmie,

I have used the self timer, but mostly on non portrait related stuff. It seems to work much the same way my old Nikon film camera worked.

I share your concerns regarding the use of this feature for portrait photography for the reasons you express. I would also discourage the use of cable release (or the wireless remote).

I am of the opinion that the shutter should be released while observing the subject through the view finder. I believe the view of the subject from any other vantage point is just arbitrary, except maybe with experienced models.

Just thought I'd throw that out there, maybe others can answer you question more directly.